At the top of the list of new features is the launch of Live Search 411, a voice search product built on technology acquired from Tellme earlier this year. Features are similar to what Google offers with GOOG-411.

Besides Live Search 411, Microsoft improved its driving directions, and expanded its coverage area for bird's eye and 3D images. It also launched mobile versions of Live Search for Windows Mobile and Blackberry devices.

About the author

Kevin Newcomb joined ClickZ in August 2004, covering search marketing and other online marketing topics. He has been reporting on web-based businesses since 2000.

Before the bubble burst, Kevin was a marketing manager for an online computer reseller, handling copywriting, e-mail marketing, search marketing and running the affiliate program.

With a combination of real-world marketing experience and years of business journalism, Kevin brings to ClickZ a unique ability to deliver news and training materials that help online marketers do their jobs better.